In September 2020, a Fly Synthesis Texan Top microlight experienced a flat tyre on landing at Whangarei. The aircraft veered off the seal runway causing significant damage to the nose gear assembly. The aircraft came to a rest on its nose. There were no injuries.
The PIC advised that, on touching down at Whangarei on the seal runway, there was a muffled bang and loud rumbling noise under the front of the aircraft. The PIC suspected a tyre had blown out. They were able to keep the aircraft travelling in a straight line for approximately 80-100 metres but as the airspeed reduced, the rudder was not effective enough to maintain directional control. The aircraft then veered off the runway hitting a runway edge light and coming to a stop on its nose. The pilot was not injured and the aircraft was subsequently removed to a local hangar.